“Our two countries have been very good neighbours for a long time. We do not approve undue external pressure over countries. That is why the Maldives consistently stood for Sri Lanka at international fora. We will continue to do so in shoulder to shoulder with Sri Lanka.” This was emphasized by Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.
The Maldivian President laid this emphasis joining in an official discussion with President Rajapaksa and his delegation. The talks were held at the President’s Office in Male.
The Maldivian leader said that their countries have been subjected to harassments and too much foreign intervention. This should stop. He said that they should stand together in this respect.
We see that Maldives progressing ahead with a new vigor. Maldives’ role in SAARC is commendable. President Rajapaksa thanked Maldives for supporting Sri Lanka at international fora. President Rajapaksa pointed out that friendship and cooperation among South Asian countries will not only be beneficial to the countries in the region but also helps world peace and stability. He said they should speak in same voice at a common platform.
President Rajapaksa identified certain areas of cooperation including the development of hospital service in Maldives, education, scholarships, youth development, sports, vocational training, culture, crime prevention, security and military training.
The Maldivian leader said they experience a huge shortage of doctors and the lack of specialists was a big problem. As such he sought help from President Rajapaksa who readily agreed to it.
It was revealed at this meeting that the pension issue of Sri Lankan migrant workers in Maldives had been sorted out. The discussion was joined by many Parliamentarians of both countries.
Meanwhile, Maldivian President Abdullah Yameen Abdul Gayoom and First Lady Fathima Ibrahim hosted a banquet last night in honour of President Rajapaksa and First Lady Shiranthi Wickremasinghe Rajapaksa and their delegation. The banquet was hosted at the Tourist Resort of the Kurumba Islands. It was attended by a distinguished gathering from both countries. Maldivian songs and dances added colour to the event.
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